Top cops in Leicestershire are calling for a review of how forces are funded to tackle a cash disparity between regions.

Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Lord Willy Bach, said the force has “suffered to the tune of £5.6 million” every year due to the current formula.

He said the force received £168.9 per person in 2016, compared to the national average of £181.5.

Mr Bach and Chief Constable Simon Cole met with policing minister Brandon Lewis in London to put the case for a fairer funding deal which takes into account population growth.

Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach

Mr Bach said: “I know I’m not alone, every PCC in the land wants additional funding, but I do believe that our need is greater than others.

“I was keen to explain to the minister that a fairer funding deal for Leicestershire Police would bring noticeable benefits to the quality of service policing in the county.

“I am aware that the force has received positive reviews on its performance from HMIC. I’m very proud of this. But perversely these reviews might not be advantageous in terms of funding.

“The Minister listened to our case and he was well-informed, but I’m under no illusions that we are anything but in a queue. However, I’m grateful for the opportunity to put our case forward and hope that we were persuasive.”